Ian Gertler

Ian Scott Gertler, 51, of Fuquay Varina, NC passed away unexpectedly on Sunday, August 24, 2025.

Ian was born on October 2, 1973 in Brooklyn, NY to Jessie (Kaufman) Gertler and the late Dr. Robert Gertler. Growing up in Coram, NY, his childhood was full of special moments including basketball in the backyard, family holidays and cherished extended family gatherings. He was empowered with his father's loving bear hugs, which he always gave freely as an expression of love and support. He took great pride and joy in helping his father working at Vision World as well.

Ian was a graduate of Longwood High School, Class of 1991, and went on to earn his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from SUNY Oswego in 1995. Throughout his career, Ian approached every professional opportunity with enthusiasm, dedication, and a deep sense of gratitude. He was passionate about his work and took pride in the relationships he built along the way. Over the years, he contributed his talents to several respected companies, forging lasting friendships and making a meaningful impact. Most recently, Ian found great fulfillment in his role at BluBird, where he embraced the company's mission and enjoyed the camaraderie of his colleagues.

Ian leaves behind his wife, Jennifer (Sulzman) Gertler, and sons Jonathan and Andrew. Ian loved his family fiercely. He enjoyed spending every minute with his “boys”, often regaling them with eye rolling dad jokes. He was proud to watch them grow into kind hearted men. Ian’s favorite place to be was home with his family. He loved working in the yard and going for long walks. He was a true New Yorker, always rooting for the Yankees, Giants, and Knicks. His absence will be felt for the rest of our lives.

Ian also leaves behind his brothers Shawn Gertler (Nilda) and Darren (Yvette) Gertler, with whom he shared a lifetime of memories, laughter, and unconditional support (and maybe a hole or two in the wall). He held a special place in his heart for his aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Ian cherished the moments spent with family, whether during holidays, milestone celebrations, or everyday conversations. Their love and presence were a constant source of strength and happiness in his life.

Ian’s mom Jessie remarks, “Ian was my first-born son. After 24 hours of labor, he came into Robert and my world, by c-section. From that day forward, Ian gave us more joy, happiness and love than we ever imagined possible. The pride we had in him for 51 years, as well as Shawn and Darren gave our lives purpose, meaning and happiness. My heart is broken, but I will keep my memories of him with me forever.”

A memorial service will be held at Moloney’s Port Jefferson Station Funeral Home at 9:30 am on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. The burial will follow at Washington Memorial Park Cemetery in Mt. Sinai.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF). As a Type 1 diabetic, Ian was a champion for this cause.